Credited from: REUTERS
Vietnam is currently on high alert as it braces for **Typhoon Wipha**, with forecasts predicting heavy rainfall of up to 500mm (20 inches) and strong winds. The storm is expected to make landfall in northern provinces, specifically in Ninh Binh and Thanh Hoa, prompting Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to declare emergency measures. Nearly **350,000 soldiers** are on standby to assist with disaster response as airline operations are disrupted and thousands of residents are warned of potential flooding and landslides, according to India Times, Channel News Asia, and Reuters.
The impact of Wipha is already evident as it has exacerbated the situation in the Philippines, where heavy rains from the storm have resulted in **five confirmed deaths** and widespread flooding that has displaced thousands. Efforts are ongoing to assist those affected by the relentless monsoon conditions, with residents relying on shelters. The **National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council** in the Philippines has mobilized resources as the government continues to assess and respond to the damage inflicted by the storm, according to Al Jazeera and Reuters.
As **Wipha** approaches Vietnam, it has already caused significant concern among officials and residents who recall the devastation from past storms, notably **Typhoon Yagi**, which resulted in approximately **300 fatalities** and severe economic impacts last year. Reports indicate that the storm is likely to weaken after making landfall, highlighting the importance of preparedness and community resilience in the face of natural disasters, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.